You want me to go where?

Paris, Day 3 update.  We were scheduled to visit the Eiffel Tower today.  I was feeling rather chuffed with myself for learning about the online reservation system for the elevator ride to the top.  We arrived in Paris with our appointment time already made, tickets in hand, ready to go.


I felt a little sheepish about such an obviously tourist activity, but one of the things I realize being here with kids is that you have to take things at face value and not try to be too hip.  The Eiffel tower is an big draw for any self respecting American kid, so off we went.


When we were here before we didn't bother.  Heck, this is Bob's fourth time to Paris and he's never been.  (We haven't been to the Louvre either, and we might have to address that this week as well).


As we started getting closer I started to realize exactly how big it is.  I also started to recall my very real fear of heights.  But in the spirit of 'can do' mommyhood, I swallowed my fear, kept a smile on my face, and queued up with the masses.  It should be noted that the reservation system is definitely the way to go, and a late morning appointment time is a good way to beat the crowds.  We only waited in line about 40 minutes before our ride started.  


The first ride up to the deck at the base was plenty high enough for me.  Not helping matters were the jokers in our second elevator ride who were making creepy comments trying to freak out their very nervous companion.  I noticed that the kids started to get pretty quiet as we climbed up, up, up.


The top is way the heck up there.  It has two levels, one which is indoors and relatively comfortable.  The upper deck has nice secure fencing all the way up, which kept me from going completely insane with fear.  There were a few floor plates that felt a little wobbly, which caused Auggie to comment that they made him feel freaked out.  This from the kid who's favorite pastime is jumping off of the tallest thing he can climb.


It was a hazy day, so the view wasn't stellar.  But one can imagine what it's like on a clear day.  I got within a few feet of the railing, and that was it.  We took some pictures, at which point the kids turned to me and said, 'can we go down now?'  The apple doesn't fall far from the tree I guess.... and I didn't even say a word about being scared.  I think it is just really tall and a little bit scary up there.  Even for a uber positive Gade kid.


It just goes to show that you can plan, and organize, but not really take a moment to think about whether you are going to actually like it.  Or at least, I can do that.  Clearly, planning is a good part of the fun for me.  


But all in all, a good experience.  I'm glad I sucked it up, and saw what it was like at the top.... so that I don't have to go back up there.  Ever.


Here is the face of abject fear.  Looks fun, no?

And yes it was cold, which only added to the experience.